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Scorpions in Mexico City: Which boroughs have the most of these arachnids? Protect your family from stings
๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ Mexico /Health & Science

Scorpions in Mexico City: Which boroughs have the most of these arachnids? Protect your family from stings

From El Universal · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Scorpion sightings are increasing in Mexico City due to high temperatures, prompting authorities to issue prevention guidelines.
  • Tlalpan, Xochimilco, and Milpa Alta are among the areas with the most frequent scorpion reports, particularly those with more vegetation and natural areas.
  • Residents are advised to avoid direct contact with scorpions, shake out bedding and clothing, and seek immediate medical attention if bitten, especially children and the elderly.

Scorpions are becoming a growing concern in Mexico City as high temperatures drive them out of their usual hiding places. While the city is not a national hotspot for scorpion stings, increased sightings have prompted health authorities to reinforce prevention advice.

Although Mexico City is not one of the entities with the highest incidence of stings in the country, an increase in scorpion sightings has been detected in various areas, leading authorities to reinforce prevention recommendations.

โ€” AuthoritiesRegarding the rise in scorpion sightings and the response from officials.

These nocturnal arachnids seek shelter in dark, cool areas with access to food. Factors like urban growth, debris accumulation, unkempt gardens, and rising temperatures create favorable conditions for their presence. The risk of stings inside homes rises significantly between April and July, according to the Ministry of Health's guide.

Scorpions at home tend to seek refuge in dark, cool places with access to food. Factors such as urban growth, debris accumulation, unkempt gardens, and high temperatures favor their presence.

โ€” Ministry of HealthExplaining the environmental factors contributing to scorpion presence in homes.

Areas with more vegetation, ravines, and natural spaces tend to report more scorpion sightings. Among the districts frequently reporting these arachnids are Tlalpan, Xochimilco, Milpa Alta, Magdalena Contreras, รlvaro Obregรณn, and Cuajimalpa.

If you detect one inside your home, avoid manipulating it directly. Use a container to isolate it or request support from specialized fauna control personnel.

โ€” Ministry of HealthProviding immediate action advice for scorpion encounters indoors.

Authorities urge residents to avoid direct handling of scorpions, instead isolating them with a container or calling specialized pest control. Before using bedding or clothing, especially if stored in damp areas, it's crucial to shake them out. In case of a sting, immediate medical attention is vital, particularly for children and the elderly, or if severe symptoms like breathing difficulties or dizziness occur.

During the nights, shake out beds and blankets before using them, as well as clothes and shoes if stored in damp areas with a higher presence of humidity.

โ€” Ministry of HealthOffering a preventative measure against scorpions in bedding and clothing.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by El Universal in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.